Trade Secrets

Nichola Joss is the woman the celebs turn to when they need to pull out all the stops. A well known face in the fashion, film and beauty world, Nichola is famed for her lymphatic drainage massage, luxury facials and picture perfect manicures.

With a client list that includes the likes of Keira Knightley, Liz Hurley, Kate Moss, Charlize Theron and Joanna Lumley, Nicola's CV reads like a who's who of the hottest A-list stars around. From preparing Scarlett Johansson for a Vogue cover shoot, and Jodie Kidd for those nude Monsoon adverts, to advising L'Occitane in her role as their Skincare Specialist, Nichola's days are certainly never dull.

Here Nichola shares some of her top trade secrets with Bolton Boutique's Katie Lucas

What beauty crimes would you say British women are most guilty of?

Not taking off their make-up before bed. Also, not spending enough time actually massaging products into the skin; instead they just apply it sparingly and quickly, and then wonder why they don't get the results they're expecting. It's so important to not only use the products you have purchased, but to use them frequently, and it really is all about the massage!

Do you think the cleanse, tone and moisturise' mantra is still valid for today's woman?

It's difficult to keep re-inventing skincare rituals, and the thing to remember is that cleanse, tone and moisturise, WORKS. It helps to clean, prepare and protect the skin, as well as hydrate and repair it.

What are your top skincare tips?

Routine, routine, routine. Regular skincare routines, sleep and water will aid all those great products on the market. Facials by professionals are definitely a recommendation, as the therapist will address the underlying problems you cannot detect yourself, as well as analyse your skin and advise you about suitable products and techniques.

What wonder products could you not live without?

L'Occitane Shea Butter Hand Cream - the ultimate hand cream! It's fantastic. Also, Crème de la Mer skincare, I adore it.

I think to a degree it's correct, but I will say that there are a lot of minor half-hearted products out there that are rolling on the packaging or clever marketing, and are actually no better than their cheaper counterparts. Cosmeceutical skincare brands have the research facilities and professionals behind them, and they contain higher percentages of key ingredients.

What would you say are the top anti-ageing ingredients that people should look out for

Well, despite its insignificant inflammatory action, Vitamin A can help to diminish the depth of wrinkles. Vitamin C improves blood flow and boosts the collagen production within the body. It can bring a brighter appearance to an aged dull and dry skin. Vitamin E is an antioxidant able to protect skin against the damaging effect of free radicals. It also improves circulation, strengthens the immune system, and protects red blood cell membranes.

Topical Retinol is Vitamin A in its purest form. It has been suggested that using Vitamin A topically can help to build collagen fibres within the skin. It also has powerful exfoliating properties. Retinol Complex by SkinMedica is a highly regarded dermatological choice for an anti-ageing cream. It has been shown to increase both collagen and elastin, and even provides antioxidant defence. MD Forte's Skin Rejuvenation Eye Cream is another excellent Retinol product, specifically designed for the highly sensitive area around your eyes. Both of these products have been tested and approved by top dermatologists and ophthalmologists.

Coenzyme Q10 is helpful for protecting the skin from free radical's hazardous action. It can be found as an ingredient in skincare creams or in oral vitamin supplements.

Alpha Hydroxy Acids are fruit acids that are useful to eliminate the dead skin cells that can dull the appearance of your face.

Finally, antioxidants are vital. These naturally occurring nutrients help to maintain one's health by slowing down the ageing process of cellular molecules in the skin and body.

How do you feel about the growing popularity for cosmetic surgery?

If it can improve someone's wellbeing through image correction, then I think it's fine in moderation, but go with baby steps, make sure that you're well advised and always get a second opinion.

For more information on Nichola Joss, visit: www.nicholajoss.com